Psalms 132:3

Surely I will not come into the tabernacle of my house, nor go up into my bed;

Surely I will not come {H935} into the tabernacle {H168} of my house {H1004}, nor go up {H5927} into my bed {H6210}{H3326};

"I will not enter the house where I live or get into my bed,

“I will not enter my house or get into my bed,

Surely I will not come into the tabernacle of my house, Nor go up into my bed;

Psalms 132:3 is a powerful declaration of intense personal commitment, attributed to King David, reflecting his fervent desire to establish a permanent dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant in Jerusalem. This verse, along with the following verse, forms part of a solemn oath.

Context

Psalm 132 is a "Song of Ascents," likely sung by pilgrims on their way to Jerusalem for festivals. It recounts David's deep longing and vow to find a "resting place" for the Lord, specifically for the Ark of the Covenant, before he would settle comfortably in his own palace. This passion is contrasted with the later building of the Temple by Solomon, a fulfillment of David's initial desire to build a house for God. The verses leading up to this highlight David's remembrance of his oath to "the mighty God of Jacob" (Psalms 132:2).

Key Themes

  • Unwavering Dedication: The verse expresses an extreme level of personal sacrifice and focus. David vows to forgo personal comfort and rest until his spiritual priority is addressed.
  • Priority of God's Presence: For David, the physical presence of the Ark (symbolizing God's presence) was paramount. His own well-being and domestic comfort were secondary to securing a proper dwelling for the Lord. This reflects a deep spiritual zeal.
  • Zeal for God's House: This is a testament to David's fervent desire to honor God by providing a suitable, permanent place for worship and the symbols of His covenant with Israel.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "tabernacle of my house" (KJV) or "tent of my house" (other translations) emphasizes David's own dwelling, which at that time was likely a comfortable, established royal residence. The parallel structure, "nor go up into my bed," intensifies the vow, indicating a refusal to find personal rest or sleep until his spiritual mission is fulfilled. The Hebrew word for "tabernacle" here ('ohel) refers to a tent or dwelling, reinforcing the idea of his personal abode. This isn't just about a temporary inconvenience; it's about a profound commitment to postpone personal gratification for a higher purpose.

Practical Application

Psalms 132:3 offers a powerful challenge for modern believers to consider their own priorities. David's radical commitment to God's dwelling place serves as an example of:

  • Prioritizing God: What are we willing to sacrifice or postpone for the sake of God's kingdom and His presence in our lives?
  • Spiritual Zeal: Do we pursue God's will and His glory with the same intensity and unwavering focus that David displayed?
  • Seeking God's Rest: While David sought a physical resting place for the Ark, believers today are called to seek God's spiritual presence and His kingdom first (Matthew 6:33). This verse encourages a profound commitment to spiritual matters over personal comfort and convenience.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Matthew 6:33

    But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

  • Haggai 1:4

    [Is it] time for you, O ye, to dwell in your cieled houses, and this house [lie] waste?

  • Ecclesiastes 9:10

    Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do [it] with thy might; for [there is] no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.

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